Funeral Details

Jerome H. Stern, 96, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother, Jerry lived a life defined by devotion to family and unwavering love for his wife, Shirlee, the great love of his life and cherished partner.

Jerry was a talented accordionist and trumpet player, a U.S. Army sergeant, and a highly respected businessman whose career spanned accounting, law, and insurance. A CPA, MBA, attorney, and insurance industry leader, he was admired for his integrity, wisdom, and trustworthiness. He was a devoted family man, a generous supporter of Israel, a seasoned international traveler, and a lifelong lover of music, theater, and the arts. He was a diehard Chicago sports fan, yet genuinely enjoyed any great competition—whether on the field of life or even on Jeopardy. His motto was “Never give up,” a legacy that will live on through his four children, eleven grandchildren, and sixteen great-grandchildren, and was evident in the generous and loving way he shared his life.

Beloved and devoted husband of the late Shirlee Stern, née Romanz, his cherished partner and constant companion throughout their life together. Son of the late Arthur J. Stern and Evelynne (Goldberg) Stern. Loving father of Caryn (Bruce) Wolf, Terri Stern Merar, Russell (Susan) Stern, and Glenn (Lourdes) Stern. Proud grandfather of Paul (Lisa) Wolf, Brad Wolf, Julie (Brad) Ganas, Daniel Wolf, Sophie (Menashe) Gold, Jeffrey (Jessica) Merar, Michael (Alissa) Merar, Valerie Merar, Veronica (Tom) Foster, Jonathan, and Gabriella. Cherished great-grandfather of Noah, Tristan, Ethan, Penelope, Ezra, Caleb, Liam, Aria, Hayden, Hudson, Oliver, Leo, Sienna, Isabelle, Triton, and Griffin. Dear brother of Joyce (Dr. Donald) Greenberg. Dear brother-in-law of Marshall and Elayne Romanz and Sharon Romanz and the late Irv Kaufman.

Service Monday, 8:30 am Chicago Jewish Funerals, 195 North Buffalo Grove Rd., (one block north of Lake Cook Rd.), Buffalo Grove.
Interment Shalom Cemetery. To view the livestream please visit our website. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Jewish United Fund, 30 South Wells St., Room 3134, Chicago, IL 60606 www.juf.org would be appreciated.
Arrangements by Chicago Jewish Funerals - Buffalo Grove Chapel,